UV Index in Massawa, Eritrea

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Massawa, Eritrea, where the climate is characterized as arid and hot (BWh). With maximum UV levels peaking at 10 during midday hours, knowledge of UV exposure is vital for preventing sunburn and maintaining skin health. By grasping the risks associated with the sun's harmful rays, you can take proactive measures to enjoy outdoor activities while safeguarding your well-being. Stay informed and protect your skin in this sun-drenched coastal city, where the risk of UV damage can escalate quickly throughout the day.

Hourly UV Index in Massawa

The UV Index throughout the day follows an illuminating path, beginning with a gentle maximum of 1 at 7:00 AM. As the sun rises higher, the index climbs steadily, reaching a comfortable 2 by 8:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it hits 4, but the real intensity begins at 10:00 AM when it surges to 7. The peak arrives at 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, both clocking in at a strong 10, urging sun seekers to adopt protective measures. The afternoon sees a gradual decline, dipping to 8 at 2:00 PM, then to 5 by 3:00 PM. As the sun begins its descent, the index falls further to 3 at 4:00 PM, before retreating back to 1 by 5:00 PM, and finally settling at 0 by 7:00 PM, marking the end of a day under the sun's potent rays.

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	1	low	45 min
08:00	2	low	45 min
09:00	4	moderate	30 min
10:00	7	high	25 min
11:00	9	very high	15 min
12:00	10	very high	15 min
13:00	10	very high	15 min
14:00	8	very high	15 min
15:00	5	moderate	30 min
16:00	3	moderate	30 min
17:00	1	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Massawa

The UV Index exhibits notable seasonal variations, peaking during the spring months of March through May, where it reaches an extreme level of 12, corresponding to a burn time of just 10 minutes. High-risk months for UV exposure include March, April, and May when precautions are particularly crucial. From January to February, the index remains very high at 9 and 10, with a 15-minute burn time, while the UV index drops slightly in the cooler months of December and November but still remains high at 8 to 9. Visitors and residents are advised to take protective measures such as wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, and protective clothing, especially during peak hours from late morning to early afternoon, to mitigate the risk of UV-related health issues.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Massawa, Eritrea

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Massawa. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Massawa, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Massawa UV Index with Other Eritrea Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Massawa compares to other major locations across Eritrea. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Massawa's solar exposure compared to other cities in Eritrea. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Massawa	9	10	12	12	11	10	10	10	10	9	9	8
Assab UVI	10	11	12	13	13	10	10	10	10	10	9	8
Keren UVI	11	12	14	14	14	12	12	13	12	12	10	9
Mendefera UVI	11	13	15	15	14	12	13	13	12	12	10	10
Asmara UVI	11	13	15	15	14	12	13	13	12	12	10	10